South Australian training providers will be able to apply for grants of up to $250,000 to upgrade facilities, technology and equipment used to train the state’s future defence and construction workforce.
The State Government has launched a new $3 million Equipment and Capital Grants initiative, with funding to be split evenly between the defence and construction sectors.
TAFE, industry-based and not-for-profit training providers will be eligible to apply, with projects expected to focus on equipment and infrastructure that can improve access to training, participation and completion rates in areas facing skills shortages.
The latest funding comes as South Australia prepares for a significant pipeline of skilled work across housing, infrastructure and defence, including the construction of Australia’s SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines in Adelaide. The Department of State Development says delivering the submarine program will require South Australia to substantially grow its industrial workforce and skills base.
Among the occupations being targeted are electricians, welders and fitters, with training providers able to seek funding for new technology as well as upgrades to existing training sites.
Minister for State Development, Chris Picton, said building the workforce would be critical as major projects progress across the state.
“We need more young people learning how to be electricians, welders and fitters,” Mr Picton said.
“This important election commitment sees the State Government partner with training providers to invest in improved facilities, to create an ongoing pathway to upskill the next generation.”
The program follows earlier Equipment and Capital Grant rounds, which have funded new training facilities and equipment across South Australia. In the 2025-26 round, 18 providers shared $2.67 million, including projects supporting construction, defence, manufacturing and regional training.
Albert Park training provider PEER has previously used government funding to install virtual reality training technology, expand its welding bays and improve facilities for women entering trades.
PEER chief executive officer Brian Rungie said demand for skilled workers would continue across several major industries.
“There is significant work ahead across building and construction, infrastructure, energy and defence, and that creates genuine career opportunities for both young people and people looking to change careers,” he said.
The announcement also comes alongside fresh NCVER figures showing the changing picture for apprenticeships nationally. Across Australia, trade commencements fell 1.1 per cent in the 12 months to March 2026, while trade completions rose 9.9 per cent. Electrician commencements recorded particularly strong quarterly growth, rising 19 per cent compared with the March quarter a year earlier.
According to the State Government, South Australia recorded an increase in trade apprentice commencements over the year, while trade completions rose 20.8 per cent.
Applications for the new grant round: Open Monday, September 21 and close Friday, October 16, 2026.
